Johnson, Peter P. (1871-1960)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 15 Dec 1960 p. 8

Birth date: 1871 Mar 3

text of obituary:

PETER P. JOHNSON

Peter P. Johnson was born March 3, 1871 in Polish Russia and departed this life on Nov. 26, 1960 at the age of 89 years, eight months and 28 days in Mercy Hospital, Moundridge, Kan.

At the age of three year she with his parents came to America, spent the first winter in Pennsylvania and then came to Kansas, settling on a farm where he lived for 82 years. Later he moved to Moundridge where he resided his remaining years with his daughter Zelda.

On Jan. 28, 1895 he was united in marriage to Susie Unruh, sharing joys and sorrows for over 51 years. To this union seven children were born, five daughters and two sons. Fourteen years ago his wife was taken from his side and four years later his son Jesse passed away unexpectedly.

Father felt his lost condition and was converted and baptized on confession of his faith by the elder Tobias A. Unrash, Dec. 25, 1894, remaining faithful to his vows until the end.

He was very hospitable and at numerous times they provided a temporary home for a number of children and older persons also. In his younger years he taught school and was the janitor for the Lonetree church for 35 years. He provided well for his family and was ready to give of his material blessings to those in need.

He was always very active and enjoyed good health until a few years ago when his health began to fail. In October he was taken to Mercy Hospital where all medical aid was given to ease his intense suffering and pain. His release came early Saturday morning, Nov. 26. Death was caused by cancer.

He was preceded in death by his companion, one son and three great-grandchildren.

Those surviving are Zelda of the home, Amanda and husband Fred P. Becker, Moundridge; Ida and husband David W. Koehn, Galva; Esther and husband Albert E. Koehn, Canton; Vada of Galva; Eldon and wife Bessie, Galva; Luella and husband Glenn Koehn, Galva; 83 grandchildren, 82 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends.

Services were held at the Lonetree church near Moundridge by Rev. Lincoln Jantz, Greensburg, Kan., and Rev. Abe Koehn, Galva. Interment was in the near by cemetery.